Bronchitis involves infection in the lungs triggered by inflammation and swelling. The condition can last for weeks or even months and often a complication of respiratory illnesses such as the flu or common cold. In most cases, bronchitis is triggered by a virus and generally communicable. Nevertheless, if the individual has the flu and ends up with bronchitis, he/she might be spreading the flu, not necessarily bronchitis.
How can I spread other conditions if bronchitis is present?
Acute cases of bronchitis develop once a virus attacks the lining of the airways leading to the lungs, causing swelling and increased mucus production. Remember that it is not triggered by one specific virus since it can be caused by any virus that causes a respiratory infection.
If an individual ends up with bronchitis, he/she is considered contagious and capable of spreading any illness that caused the condition. The preceding illness might lead to bronchitis among others or not.
What to do?
In most cases of acute bronchitis, they resolve on their own within a week or so. The cough can persist for several weeks or even longer. Since most cases of bronchitis are triggered by viruses, antibiotics should be used. The antibiotics could not kill viruses and will not make the individual feel better. Instead, they can trigger undesirable side effects and even lead to antibiotic resistance. In uncommon cases, it can be triggered by bacteria and the doctor might prescribe antibiotics to deal with the bacterial infection.
The treatment for bronchitis is strikingly similar to other measures used in managing viral infections. The symptoms can be treated but you still have to wait for the virus to go away on its own. The measures to help relieve the cough include the following:
- Over-the-counter medications
- Prescribe medications as needed or given by the doctor
- Using a humidifier
- Adequate rest
- Increased intake of fluids to keep the body hydrated
If the individual has bronchitis, a doctor should be consulted so that the suitable treatment can be started. It is also recommended to stay away from others especially those who are at high risk for serious conditions such as infants, elderly and individuals who have compromised or weakened immune systems.